Comparing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, and Treatment as Usual in a High Risk Population

Cognitive-behaviour therapy, problem-solving therapy, or treatment-as-usual were compared in the management of suicide attempters. Participants completed the Beck Hopelessness Scale, Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, Social Problem-Solving Inventory, & Client Satisfaction Questionnaire at pre- & post-treatment. Both cognitive-behaviour therapy & problem-solving therapy indicated significant improvements over time within the majority of measured variables. When compared to treatment-as-usal, both groups showed significant differences on satisfaction. When problem-solving therapy was compared to treatment-as-usal, results indicated significant differences on suicde ideation, indicating overall efficacy of brief therapies with suicide attempters. (45 refs.)